Monday, May 30, 2011

a risky mission



Twenty pieces of brightly colored African fabric that I've been strategically purchasing for the past 9 months are now en route to America as we know it.  A portion of my Even Me project is meeting my destiny: home. 

Only four pieces short of completion, I hesitantly handed over the treasured fabric to my father who was on his way home after an unforgettable visit in Moshi, (thanks again for experiencing life in Africa, Dad)!  Nonetheless, he took on the dangerous task of safely transporting irreplaceable Tanzanian fabric thousands of miles to America.  Not anyone could be given this opportunity, this privilege, and yet huge responsibility; only those who deem themselves worthwhile and dependable.  However, due to blood relation and a backer of my Even Me project, I graciously granted my father this mission.  And really, who would decline such an offer?  

He promised me he'd securely hide the fabric (not telling where) until I find myself home in six weeks.  Even so, just in case he or any other individual happens to confuse my fabric with African souvenirs, I strung the material together with yarn and an explicit note:  Please do NOT go through this fabric : Material for Even Me!








Sunday, May 22, 2011

DeaR.chilDren

It's hard to think I only have a month and a half left with these beautiful children I've grown so close to.  I'm grateful that this project can be started upon my return to the states; it will only help to relive the giggles, smiles, accents, gestures, and personalities of each child.    


Friday, May 20, 2011

MY PROJECT IS SUCCESSFULLY FUNDED!!!!

It's a great start to the day when you wake up, take a shower, start the kettle, and open your computer to learn that your project on kickstarter is completely funded - and more!  
I cannot believe my goal of $3,000 has been reached in less than 14 days!  It just proves how wonderfully generous and supportive my friends are. Thank you so much.


This is me right when I found out the news - swollen-eyed (before the coffee) yet so very excited and quite surprised: 
You can check out my project by clicking on the Even Me link in the sidebar! 

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Hooray

Due to my incredibly generous friends, I have reached 65% of my funding in less than a week! Wowsers!  Thank you, thank you, thank you for your support towards Even Me.  


Behind the scenes of a preliminary photo-shoot: 


photos by Lydia Nickels

Sunday, May 8, 2011

even me.

Yes, I'm starting a new blog.  
Do not fear, I will not neglect my current blog, www.morethorp.wordpress.com, so please continue reading it.  This new blog will specifically be used to update you about my project, Even Me, from start to finish.  I will post my progress, photographs, thoughts, paintings, ideas, and behind the scenes info.  This is the beginning.  The first, and one of the most important steps, is getting this project idea out of my head and into yours.  I recently launched my project idea on http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1286252182/even-me, and would be honored if you checked it out.  I hope to reach my goal of $3,000 before August 5 so I can begin to paint when I return from Africa.  
Your constant support in my life deserves a smile, hug, and a truly spoken thank you.